A Simple Guide to Exporting for an Entrepreneur

If you’re looking to branch out and grow your business, exporting is something you’re going to need to familiarise yourself with. There’s a lot more to exporting goods to another country than you might think. Although technology has made it easier than ever before to do business internationally, there are still factors you need to be aware of before getting involved with importing or exporting goods.

Research your location

Not only do you need to double check that your products will do well in your chosen country, but you also need to factor in regulations. Different countries will have differing regulations, with some being much stricter than others. The cost of wages if you’re looking to employ local staff is also something you’ll need to take into account. Then, there’s the economic climate of the country and any issues that may affect trade in the not too distant future.

There really is a lot to think about before pinpointing your perfect export location.

Find a reliable and affordable courier

Once you’re sure the country you have chosen is right for your business, you’re going to need to work out the logistics.

Sending products abroad may be easier these days thanks to technology, but it’s also quite a complex and potentially stressful process! Therefore, you’re going to need to select a courier you can trust. Don’t just focus on the cost. While you’ll obviously want to save money, it’s more important to find a supplier who offers a reliable service.

Consider hiring local staff

Thanks to the internet, you don’t necessarily need to have a physical premise in the country you’re expanding to. However, it can be really useful to have local staff who understand the culture and language. This can help with negotiating deals with local suppliers and ensuring the marketing side of the business is taken care of.

Funding

Finally, funding is something else you’re going to need to think about. Can you afford to expand internationally without putting your business at risk? Factor in the cost of shipping, marketing and potentially hiring new staff if needed.

Overall, there is a lot to think about as an entrepreneur looking to expand your business overseas. The above are just some of the most important factors you need to consider. The more you plan ahead, the more likely you’ll be to succeed.